The basic want of a comfortable place to sleep is something we all desire. The Japanese developed a type of bedding called a shikibuton that was a padded mattress that could be rolled up each day and stored. This provided them with the desired sleeping comfort while also providing them the much needed space that they were lacking.
These shikibuton mattresses were quite thin about two to three inches, and were primarily made of long staple cotton. Which was the most valuable and expensive part of the cotton ball. This cotton is usually spun into clothing because of its strength. The strength of this cotton used for batting in the mattress prevented the batting from pulling apart and getting lumpy.
In the 1970's this type of sleeping arrangement hit America. A furniture designer named William Brouwer thought small living quarters could benefit from having an adaptable bed. Hide-a-beds were the main form of convertible beds during that time, Sikkens stain but were uncomfortable and difficult to move. Futons were a great solution to this problem. Futons were comfortable and easy to move. Knowing that Americans preferred sleeping up off the floor Brouwer designed a bedframe composed of three parts which would slide together to convert into a wide chair or couch.
The mattresses used for this new design of futon were made from linter fibers taken from the center of the cotton ball. These were much less expensive and were able to be twice as thick as the original Japanese shikibuton.
Nowadays futon mattresses can be found in various thicknesses and compositions. Depending on each individuals needs they can find a mattress to suit them. Many still contain the basic filling of cotton, but they also incorporate foam or sometimes even springs. Not only can you choose from the different materials you would like to support you, you can also decide on how thick you want your mattress. It has gone from the original two to three inches all the way to ranging from eight to ten inches.
The frame that these mattresses sit upon have also come a long way. The original design posed a problem when trying to convert the couch into the sleeping position. You needed to get behind the futon to covert it, so if the futon was up against a wall it was hard to change its position. The design has been changed to provide an easier way to switch positions.
The basic futon frame can now be found in a variety of styles and materials. The main idea has remained the same as furniture designers continue to build futons. Futon designs range from very basic to some that are more extravagant. They come in a variety of wood choices and some are even made with metal material.
To add to the style of futons a zip-on upholstery cover can be chosen from several designer fabrics. This feature lends itself to giving you more style options to suit your personality or to match a room's decor.
Futons started out as a small mattress that was rolled up and stored in a closet. Now they provide extra seating, a comfortable place to sleep and can be enjoyed all day long as a part of any rooms decor.
Futons provide versatility. They can be used for seating while providing an extra place to sleep. Whether you live in smaller living quarters or just need space for overnight guests, a futon is what you need.
There are a large variety of futon frames, mattresses and covers. All of which can be found at http://loungingluxury.com a site which contains many choices of high quality futon frames, mattresses and covers.
Futons are a great way to convert any living space into a functional comfortable stylish room. The duel uses are very convenient and with your choice of frame and cover you do not have to sacrifice style.
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